Automotive Air Conditioning Information Forum (Archives)

mlelah on Thu May 30, 2013 9:38 PM

Year: 1989
Make: Honda
Model: Prelude
Engine Size: 2.0
Refrigerant Type: R134a
Country of Origin: United States

My a/c on my 89 Prelude has been previously converted to 134a. Now blowing warm air. Had it tested for leaks. Came back that the flex hoses have deteriorated and rubber particles blocking the system. I need to replace the discharge and suction hoses, condenser, evaporator, expansion valve and drier.

I'm mechanically inclined and can do the replacements but will have an auto repair shop vacuum and fill. So I have some questions and I'm hoping someone can help.

The parts remaining are the receiver and condenser pipes and the compressor which is in good condition. I have a flush solvent but how do I use it to clean the pipes and compressor? What about using compressed air? I am concerned about the oil in the air. Can I flush the compressor on the vehicle without removal? How?

I'll then replace the other components and close the system. Shall I attach the drier - I may have to wait a day or two before taking the vehicle to a repair shop to charge. Will this be ok, or should I arrange to keep the drier isolated until just before I send it in for charging?

What other tips and suggestions do you have? Thanks.

HECAT on Wed June 05, 2013 10:55 AM

The A/C flushing process focuses on cleaning the heat exchangers and lines you intend to replace. The filter/dryer should always be replaced and a "good" compressor should never be flushed with a solvent. Look for the "compressor oil flush" steps in the procedures page to see how to rotate a compressor using new oil to push out the old oils. Since this is an "old" compressor and a "new" system; I would recommend a new compressor rather than risk this "old" one failing and contaminating the entire system again.

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mlelah on Wed June 05, 2013 6:08 PM

OK thanks. The compressor is almost new (1 year old). The system was R-12 but converted last year to R-134a with the new compressor.
1. If I keep the compressor, should I use POE to flush? I don't know what oil was used in the conversion.
2. Can I flush on the car and not remove the compressor?,
3. If so, do I rotate without adding oil first to flush and then rotate adding oil, or do I simultaneously rotate and add 5 oz new oil?
Thanks

Edited: Wed June 05, 2013 at 6:14 PM by mlelah

HECAT on Thu June 06, 2013 10:24 AM

Here is the procedure

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